Tottenham Hotspur have moved to reinforce their goalkeeping ranks by signing Slovakia international Martin Dubravka on a free transfer, the 37-year-old arriving after Burnley’s relegation from the Premier League. Viewed from North London, the deal provides experienced cover behind Antonin Kinsky, who displaced Guglielmo Vicario as first choice under Roberto De Zerbi late last season. Italian media report that Vicario has already agreed personal terms with Inter Milan, clearing the path for Dubravka to compete for minutes while bringing what De Zerbi called “balance, leadership and competitiveness” to a squad that narrowly avoided the drop.

Dubravka, who previously served as understudy at Manchester United and Newcastle United, made 35 league appearances for Burnley last term, keeping four clean sheets and conceding 71 goals before losing his place to youngster Max Weiss for the final three fixtures. “Tottenham is one of the biggest clubs in the Premier League and I can’t wait to meet everyone and get started,” Dubravka said, adding that negotiations “went quite quickly.” The move is part of a wider rebuild under De Zerbi that has also brought in Andy Robertson, Marcos Senesi and Jan Paul van Hecke.

Across the continent, another veteran free agent is on the brink of a switch. Dutch defender Stefan de Vrij, 34, is poised to join Greek giants Panathinaikos after his contract at Inter Milan expired. Analysts in Athens note the move would allow Panathinaikos to deploy a back three, with de Vrij slotting alongside Ahmed Touba and Erik Palmer-Brown. De Vrij departs San Siro having won three Serie A titles, three Coppa Italia trophies and three Italian Super Cups, leaving a legacy as one of the division’s most reliable centre-backs since his 2014 arrival at Lazio from Feyenoord.

In the English Championship, Bristol City opted for a lighter touch, announcing the signing of goalkeeper Sam Tickle from Wigan Athletic with a video referencing the Mr Men character Mr Tickle and his “extraordinarily long arms.” The 24-year-old, a product of Wigan’s academy, deadpans to camera: “Naa mate, we’re not doing that,” before the clip confirms he is a Robin. The creative unveiling, widely shared in the West Country, underscores how clubs outside the top flight are using humour to engage fans during the transfer window.

For Spurs, Dubravka’s arrival solidifies a goalkeeping unit in transition, while Panathinaikos await final confirmation to complete a defensive coup. Both moves highlight the enduring value of experienced free agents in a market where financial prudence often meets immediate squad needs.